hemline

noun

hem·​line ˈhem-ˌlīn How to pronounce hemline (audio)
: the line formed by the lower edge of a dress, skirt, or coat

Examples of hemline in a Sentence

The hemline falls just above the knee. I shortened the hemline on the dress.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Flapper dresses with short hemlines were all the rage in the 1920s, but gave way to lengthier designs in the 1940s and 50s. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 18 Mar. 2026 Kardashian’s liquid gold gown featured a bodycon fit through her turtleneck, long sleeves, and floor-grazing hemline, giving the illusion that she was completely bejeweled in rhinestones. Lara Walsh, InStyle, 16 Mar. 2026 To accessorize her custom Givenchy by Sarah Burton gown — which featured a wisteria embroidery on its bodice and hemline — Fanning discovered that a Cartier necklace from 1903 likewise was crafted to resemble wisteria leaves. Laurie Brookins, HollywoodReporter, 16 Mar. 2026 The structured waistband anchors the silhouette, a front pleat adds depth, and the longer hemline lengthens the leg. Alex Sales, Glamour, 15 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for hemline

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hemline was in 1923

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hemline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hemline. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

hemline

noun
hem·​line ˈhem-ˌlīn How to pronounce hemline (audio)
: the line formed by the hem of a dress, skirt, or coat
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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